Does anyone have ideas to help?

Lolita

I've been on these boards for a while.  I don't need help for myself but for a close, much beloved relative (with a young child) who has a 6 cm tumor, positive nodes, and possible metastasis (lesions found on liver and in lungs).  She can't qualify for Michigan breast cancer medicaid under title XV because she is too young (under 40) and because she did not apply for the program before her initial screening.  (Who would think to do this!)  If she applies for Social Security Disability, it is my understanding that she will have a 48 month waiting period for Medicare. She has an (under) insurance policy with a $10,000 deductible/calendar year and 20% copay and must start her treatment now, so there will be a new deductible in a few weeks.  It is my understanding that in 2014, Obama's pre-existing language will kick in for adults, but that's not soon enough. She has to stop working, so the household's very modest income is being cut in half.  It won't be enough to have money for transportation, wigs, etc., .   Let me know if you have any ideas.  Thanks!

Medigal

I am so sorry about your relative.  I have been storming Washington with emails about so many other people (my own DD) have chronic diseases (not necessarily bc) and are out of work, and are in the same predicament.   If she applies for and gets SSDI she can also apply for Medicaid which should help her out until her Medicare kicks in in two years.  That is another one of my gripes to Washington.  Who ever came up with the idea to approve suffering people for SSDI and then make them wait 2 (two) years for Medicare???    They need regular people voicing this problem before Congress to get it resolved.  So if your relative does get SSDI make sure she also qualifies for Medicaid in her state to get insurance until Medicare kicks in.  Medicaid has all sorts of rules that Medicare doesn't but if she can qualify for it with her disability, it can help until Medicare kicks in.  In our state it's called Passport for adults.  Best of luck to your relative!

Lolita

She can't the Medicaid because she didn't go for screening under the Medicaid program in Michigan by applying prior to the screening and because she is too young.  I share your outrage.  Thank you

Fearless_One

Tell her make sure she doesn't apply for SSDI while she is working.   She will not be approved (even with stage IV).

peggy_j

Wow, what a tough situation. Do the cancer support centers have counselors who can point you to financial resources? I found that the medical universities often offer support services even if you're not being treated there.

For example,I see the Univ. of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center has support services.  They said if you're not sure where to begin, you can call or email their Cancer AnswerLine from anywhere in the country.1-800-865-1125.

http://www.cancer.med.umich.edu/about/cancer_answerline.shtml

This page lists several phone numbers that might be able to help too. http://www.cancer.med.umich.edu/support/patient_support_services.shtml

Some are not specific to Univ of Michigan. For example, "Look Good Feel Better" is a national program to help patients feel better about their appearance during treatment, so they may have info on free wigs, hats, etc.

Chickadee

Medicare is available after 2 years on SSDI, not 48 months. I realize that doesn't help your friend but wanted to clarify that. Perhaps the best thing she can do now is identify every social service program in her area that supports those with breast cancer. They will be better able to direct her to any programs or services available to her.